Facing Mental Health Challenges: Seeking Help and Your Journey

Q: Facing Mental Health Challenges: Seeking Help and Your Journey

Hello, dear reader： From your letter, I can sense the immense pressure you are feeling. <br>You are facing a situation where almost all your relatives and friends are not on your side, and your interactions with others are either filled with conflicts or completely disconnected.

Inquire about mental health disorders?

Hello, Doctor: Since I became ill at the age of 20, I have been on medication until now.
To be honest, being sick has made me realize certain things, while also leaving me confused about others.
There is a doctor online who says that treating mental illness requires addressing the root of the problem.
Unfortunately, I have been avoiding reality! I am afraid to face the truth and the issues at hand.
I also fear the repercussions from those I owe debts to, among other things.
I have made serious mistakes in the past, and I know that the consequences will eventually catch up to me; I just don’t know when or in what form.
Being ill has also made me feel the warmth and coldness of human relationships and the changes that come with them.
Honestly, I don’t have a single friend, unlike my brother.
In times of crisis, I can only rely on myself or my brother.
It’s quite sad when I think about it.
Perhaps my brother is still single and hasn’t married because of the burden I’ve placed on him.
As for those who only used me or similar acquaintances, I have seen their true colors and have cut ties with them.
When I was younger, I didn’t understand, but now that I do, I am no longer young.
To be honest, my illness has been diagnosed by several different psychiatrists as various conditions, ranging from the initial diagnosis of affective psychosis, bipolar disorder, and depression to my current diagnoses of depression and schizophrenia.
I never exercise, but I take my work very seriously, although I often arrive late.
I used to frequently take leave as well.
Recently, I have been harmed by malicious rumors, which have left me feeling unsettled.
I am still an ambitious person; outside of work, I am preparing for a national examination.
However, my studying is inconsistent, and I haven’t been able to focus much.
I really can’t manage to excel at work and study at the same time; it’s truly difficult to do both well.
The root of my issues lies in conflicts with others.
Although the other party was at fault initially, my way of retaliating was also wrong, leading to a cycle of revenge.
Later, I resorted to cursing at them, but the information spread was biased and even partially incorrect.
Everyone blames me without acknowledging that the other party was also at fault.
No one listens to me; they all treat me like I’m crazy.
This sometimes drives me to extreme emotions, making me want to fight or vent my anger on others.
I know this is wrong, but I have no outlet for my feelings.
I plan to tell my psychiatrist everything from the beginning, but I have been avoiding reality.
My follow-up appointment is this month.
I feel like I am the target of others, and conversely, I also have targets of my own.
What should I do? Should I talk to a psychologist, or continue to avoid the situation? I had planned that if I passed the national exam, I would be assigned to a different county, leaving behind this hometown that causes me so much pain and guilt towards others.
My mother has been dead for decades.
My father is still alive, and he knows I have made mistakes; he would likely kick me out of the house.
What should I do? My follow-up appointment is this month...

Jason, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/03

Dr. Liao Dinglie reply Psychiatry

Hello, dear reader: From your letter, I can sense the immense pressure you are feeling.
You are facing a situation where almost all your relatives and friends are not on your side, and your interactions with others are either filled with conflicts or completely disconnected.
Indeed, in times of adversity, having close individuals to provide support can significantly alleviate stress; conversely, when you are under pressure and your judgments differ, or even oppose, those of your loved ones, it can be extremely tormenting.
If your brother has truly helped you manage many issues over the past twenty years, it is indeed appropriate to express your gratitude to him at the right time.
After all, the closest people in the world are just these few family members.

In cases of mental illness, when symptoms of depression are present, it is often difficult to articulate one’s suffering.
During such times, ongoing medication and outpatient treatment become crucial, as they can help mitigate the emotional turmoil caused by depressive symptoms, making it challenging to maintain a balanced perspective in interpersonal relationships, work, and even preparing for exams.
Conflicts in relationships often become difficult to resolve, with both parties struggling to remain calm, and the most vivid memories are often the hurts inflicted by each other, leading to deepening grievances, as you mentioned, "an eye for an eye."
If, during your consultations, you could arrange for counseling and treatment with a clinical psychologist, I believe it could help you avoid impulsive actions and the various difficulties and mistakes that arise from feelings of loneliness.
Sometimes, although these matters should be communicated with family, it can be hard to bring them up.
The professional counseling and treatment provided by a psychologist can be quite beneficial.
I wish you the strength to navigate through the various challenges in life and to gain more understanding and support from others along your journey.

Dr.
Liao Ding-Lie

Reply Date: 2021/03/03

More Info

Facing mental health challenges can be an incredibly daunting experience, especially when compounded by feelings of isolation, regret, and unresolved conflicts. It’s clear from your message that you are grappling with a multitude of emotions and circumstances that are affecting your mental well-being. The journey through mental illness is often complex, and it’s important to approach it with both understanding and a willingness to seek help.

Firstly, it’s commendable that you recognize the need for change and are contemplating discussing your feelings and experiences with your psychiatrist. Open communication with your healthcare provider is crucial. They can help you navigate through your emotions and provide the necessary support and treatment options tailored to your needs. It’s understandable to feel apprehensive about confronting painful realities, but facing these issues is often the first step toward healing.

You mentioned feeling overwhelmed by past actions and the repercussions they have had on your relationships. It’s important to acknowledge that everyone makes mistakes, and part of the healing process involves forgiving yourself. Holding onto guilt and resentment can exacerbate feelings of depression and anxiety. Consider reframing your thoughts: instead of viewing your past as a series of failures, try to see them as opportunities for growth and learning. This shift in perspective can be empowering and can help you move forward.

Regarding your feelings of anger and the desire for revenge, it’s essential to find healthier outlets for these emotions. Engaging in physical activities, such as exercise, can be a great way to release pent-up frustration. Even if you don’t currently exercise, starting with small, manageable activities like walking can significantly improve your mood and mental clarity. Additionally, mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises, can help you manage anxiety and cultivate a sense of calm.

You also expressed feelings of loneliness and a lack of support. Building a support network is vital for mental health. While it may feel challenging, consider reaching out to others, whether they are family members, friends, or support groups. Sharing your experiences with those who understand can provide comfort and reduce feelings of isolation. If you feel uncomfortable discussing your feelings with people you know, seeking a therapist or counselor can be a beneficial alternative. They can provide a safe space to explore your emotions without judgment.

As for your academic pursuits and the pressure you feel to succeed, it’s important to set realistic goals for yourself. Balancing work and study can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with mental health issues. It might be helpful to break down your study goals into smaller, more achievable tasks. Celebrate small victories along the way, as this can help build your confidence and motivation.

Lastly, it’s crucial to address your mental health proactively. If you feel that your current treatment isn’t effective, don’t hesitate to discuss this with your psychiatrist. There are various treatment options available, including medication adjustments, therapy, or alternative treatments that may better suit your needs. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

In conclusion, facing mental health challenges requires courage and a willingness to confront difficult emotions and situations. By seeking help, building a support network, and finding healthy outlets for your feelings, you can begin to navigate this journey toward healing. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are resources and people ready to support you. Take it one step at a time, and be gentle with yourself as you work through these challenges.

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